Review of MXene-Derived Quantum Dots for Cancer Theranostics

The two-dimensional MXenes quantum dots (2D-MQDs) integrate the characteristics of 2D MXenes with quantum dots, exhibiting the characteristics of unique optical properties, manifold functionalization, good biocompatibility, satisfactory dispersibility, and so on. The excellent performances of 2D-MQDs endow them with extensive application prospects for catalysis, sensing, and biomedical applications. However, to date, there is no review paper on 2D-MQDs for imaging and cancer therapy. In this Review, our purpose is to offer a comprehensive summary of progress in the synthesis (traditional and the latest top-down and bottom-up methods) and modification (surface functionalization, doping, and heterostructures) of 2D-MQDs. In addition, the focus then turns to the applications in bioimaging (luminescent-based imaging, photoacoustic imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging) and cancer therapy (photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, and catalytic therapy) of 2D-MQDs. Finally, future perspectives of the 2D-MQDs are proposed to promote their further development in cancer diagnosis and treatment. This Review will give assistance to comprehend the comprehensive and advanced development of 2D-MQDs, which could not only provide suggestions for the future design of 2D-MQDs in cancer theranostics, but also boost the other applications of 2D-MQDs to satisfy the growing requirements.